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2024 Daily Tour Itinerary
2024 Daily Tour Itinerary
Day 1 • San José, Costa Rica
Welcome to the “rich coast”, friendly land of democracy and rare natural beauty. During your Costa Rica vacation, you'll see exotic birds, view volcanoes, soak in hot springs, hike in a jungle rainforest, enjoy a wildlife river cruise, and stay three nights at one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. Fly into Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San José, Costa Rica. Transfer on your own using the official airport taxi service. Enjoy a two-night stay at your San José hotel. Rooms are available for check-in after 4:00 p.m. Join Caravan for an 8:00 p.m. welcome briefing. Dinner is included only until 9:30 p.m.
Meals: Dinner
Day 2 • Sarchi, Coffee Plantation
This morning, a brief sightseeing drive of San Jose. See the Plaza de La Cultura, Central Park, and the National Theater. Then, head through Costa Rica's Central Valley. Stop at the artisan village of Sarchi, nestled on the slopes of the Central Mountain Range. Here you can shop for colorful, traditional Costa Rican handicrafts. Visit an oxcart factory, where oxcarts are hand-painted with elaborate designs. Considered the national symbol of Costa Rica, oxcarts were historically used for the transport of coffee beans. Continue through Costa Rica's coffee growing region. Lunch. Enjoy a guided tour at a coffee plantation and sample locally grown coffee. Costa Rica's climate and rich volcanic soil help produce exceptional coffee. Visit a butterfly garden. Then, return to Costa Rica's capital, San José. Enjoy dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 • Sloth Park, Volcanic Hot Springs
Morning stop at the charming town of Zarcero. Visit Iglesia San Rafael, a Moorish styled church, and explore the sculpted topiary gardens. Next, head northwest to the San Carlos Valley passing by sugar cane and pineapple plantations. Visit Sloth Park. Here, you can see these slow moving, gentle mammals in their natural habitat. Lunch. Photo stop at the Arenal Volcano overlook. Then, enjoy a relaxing soak in volcanic hot springs. Enjoy dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 • Hanging Bridges, Guanacaste, Nicoya Peninsula
Morning visit to the Hanging Bridges Park. With a naturalist guide, hike through a rainforest while crossing suspension bridges. Weather permitting, enjoy views of the majestic Arenal Volcano. Scenic drive around Lake Arenal. Then, journey through the cloud forest region of the Cordillera de Tilarán. Lunch. Next, enter Guanacaste province. Pass by dry tropical forests, cattle ranches, and vast watermelon plantations. Visit a Hummingbird Garden. Enjoy a demonstration of Guatil pottery making. Then, enter Costa Rica’s picturesque Nicoya Peninsula on the Pacific Coast. Enjoy a relaxing three-night stay at your beach resort. Dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 • Scarlet Macaws, Wildlife Hike
Morning visit to a scarlet macaw sanctuary. Learn about efforts to protect this colorful endangered species at a wildlife rescue center. Then, a wildlife hike. Look for exotic fauna including sloths, mapaches, howler monkeys, spider monkeys, iguanas, and colorful tropical birds. Costa Rica has one of the highest levels of biodiversity in the world. Lunch. Afternoon free to indulge in your resort's many activities and amenities. Enjoy dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 • Playa Tambor
Entire day is at leisure. The Nicoya Peninsula is a pristine, secluded gem. It is one of only five Blue Zones in the world where residents have extraordinarily long, healthy lifespans. Lunch. Enjoy romantic strolls on Playa Tambor, a gently sloping beach nearly four miles long. The beach is a nesting site for endangered sea turtles. Stunning sunsets complete your day. Enjoy dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 • Gulf of Nicoya, Tarcoles Cruise
Today, ferry across the Gulf of Nicoya back to the mainland. Playful dolphins frequently swim alongside. In the rare event that the ferry is not operating or unfeasible, Caravan will return by land around the Gulf of Nicoya. Lunch. Next, cruise on the Tarcoles River and float through a mangrove forest. Adjacent to Carara National Park, this area is rich in wildlife. Look for whistling ducks, cormorants, anhingas, snowy egrets, blue heron, northern jacanas, and the amazing nests of the Montezuma oropendola. Watch for black turtles, water walking lizards, and giant crocodiles. Return to San José. Farewell dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 • San José
Your tour ends this morning at your hotel in San José. Breakfast is included only after 6:30 a.m. Caravan includes departure transfers on the day the tour ends from your hotel to the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San José, Costa Rica, arriving at 5:00 a.m, 7:00 a.m, 9:00 a.m., and 11:30 a.m. If you wish to go at a different time or extend your stay in Costa Rica, you will need to transfer on your own at your own expense. Thanks for vacationing with Caravan. ¡Muchas Gracias!
Meals: Breakfast
Arthur Frommer’s Budget Travel
See what Arthur Frommer says about us in his syndicated Budget Travel column.
February 2013
“If you need a guided tour to Costa Rica, you can’t do better than with Caravan Tours.”
September 2007
“On my Sunday radio program, I’ve several times mentioned the attractive price of $995 per person plus airfare for a 10-day, fully-escorted trip to Costa Rica offered throughout the year by the distinguished Chicago tour operator called Caravan Tours. The price includes all accommodations, all meals, and all motorcoach sightseeing and transportation…highly affordable vacations. ” ‘The Travel Show with Arthur Frommer’
January 2006
“I am still impressed that the large Caravan Tours has scheduled almost-daily departures from January through March of its escorted tour of the beaches, volcanoes and rain forests of Costa Rica. It’s a sign of how firmly tourism has taken hold of that Central American republic, and a tribute to the appeal of unsullied nature, which Costa Rica represents. However, it’s also because of the brilliant, affordable pricing of this tour by Caravan.”
December 2005
“The distinguished 53-year-old Caravan Tours has scheduled virtually daily departures there throughout January, February and March for its escorted 10-day tour.
“And what a tour it is: Usually, travelers have to choose from among Costa Rica’s beaches, volcanoes and rain forests. This tour goes to all those places and includes every major sight, as well as three meals a day on all but two days, and excellent hotels and lodges. The cost is a remarkable $995 per person for everything other than airfare to the capital city of San Jose.
“Caravan’s long record in its tour programs … inspires confidence about this strong effort to establish a presence in Costa Rica.”
Arthur Frommer’s Budget Travel
See what Arthur Frommer says about us in his syndicated Budget Travel column.
February 2013
“If you need a guided tour to Costa Rica, you can’t do better than with Caravan Tours.”
September 2007
“On my Sunday radio program, I’ve several times mentioned the attractive price of $995 per person plus airfare for a 10-day, fully-escorted trip to Costa Rica offered throughout the year by the distinguished Chicago tour operator called Caravan Tours. The price includes all accommodations, all meals, and all motorcoach sightseeing and transportation…highly affordable vacations. ” ‘The Travel Show with Arthur Frommer’
January 2006
“I am still impressed that the large Caravan Tours has scheduled almost-daily departures from January through March of its escorted tour of the beaches, volcanoes and rain forests of Costa Rica. It’s a sign of how firmly tourism has taken hold of that Central American republic, and a tribute to the appeal of unsullied nature, which Costa Rica represents. However, it’s also because of the brilliant, affordable pricing of this tour by Caravan.”
December 2005
“The distinguished 53-year-old Caravan Tours has scheduled virtually daily departures there throughout January, February and March for its escorted 10-day tour.
“And what a tour it is: Usually, travelers have to choose from among Costa Rica’s beaches, volcanoes and rain forests. This tour goes to all those places and includes every major sight, as well as three meals a day on all but two days, and excellent hotels and lodges. The cost is a remarkable $995 per person for everything other than airfare to the capital city of San Jose.
“Caravan’s long record in its tour programs … inspires confidence about this strong effort to establish a presence in Costa Rica.”
2025 Daily Tour Itinerary
2025 Daily Tour Itinerary
Day 1 • San José, Costa Rica
Welcome to the “rich coast”, friendly land of democracy and rare natural beauty. During your Costa Rica vacation, you'll see exotic birds, view volcanoes, soak in hot springs, hike in a jungle rainforest, enjoy a wildlife river cruise, and stay three nights at one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. Fly into Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San José, Costa Rica. Transfer on your own using the official airport taxi service. Enjoy a two-night stay at your San José hotel. Rooms are available for check-in after 4:00 p.m. Join Caravan for an 8:00 p.m. welcome briefing. Dinner is included only until 9:30 p.m.
Meals: Dinner
Day 2 • Coffee Farm, Wildlife Rescue Center, Sarchi
This morning, a brief sightseeing drive of San José. See the Plaza de La Cultura, Central Park, and the National Theater. Then, head through Costa Rica’s coffee growing region to visit a small family coffee farm and sample locally grown coffee. Costa Rica’s climate and rich volcanic soil help produce exceptional coffee. Next, visit a wildlife rescue center. Here, injured animals, including endangered species, are rehabilitated for release back into the wild. Visit a butterfly garden. Lunch. Then, continue through Costa Rica’s Central Valley to stop at the artisan village of Sarchi, nestled on the slopes of the Central Mountain Range. Here you can shop for colorful, traditional Costa Rican handicrafts. Visit an oxcart factory, where oxcarts are hand-painted with elaborate designs. Considered the national symbol of Costa Rica, oxcarts were historically used for the transport of coffee beans. Return to Costa Rica’s capital, San Jose. Enjoy dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 • Sloth Park, Volcanic Hot Springs
Morning stop at the charming town of Zarcero. Visit Iglesia San Rafael, a Moorish styled church, and explore the sculpted topiary gardens. Next, head northwest to the San Carlos Valley passing by sugar cane and pineapple plantations. Visit Sloth Park. Here, you can see these slow moving, gentle mammals in their natural habitat. Lunch. Photo stop at the Arenal Volcano overlook. Then, enjoy a relaxing soak in volcanic hot springs. Enjoy dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 • Hanging Bridges, Guanacaste, Nicoya Peninsula
Morning visit to the Hanging Bridges Park. With a naturalist guide, hike through a rainforest while crossing suspension bridges. Weather permitting, enjoy views of the majestic Arenal Volcano. Scenic drive around Lake Arenal. Then, journey through the cloud forest region of the Cordillera de Tilarán. Lunch. Visit a Hummingbird Garden. Next, enter Guanacaste province. Pass by dry tropical forests, cattle ranches, and vast watermelon plantations. Enjoy a demonstration of Guaitil pottery making. Then, enter Costa Rica’s picturesque Nicoya Peninsula on the Pacific Coast. Enjoy a relaxing three-night stay at your beach resort. Dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 • Scarlet Macaws, Wildlife Observation Hike
Morning visit to a scarlet macaw sanctuary. Learn about efforts to protect this colorful endangered species at a wildlife rescue center. Then, a wildlife observation hike. Look for exotic fauna including sloths, mapaches, howler monkeys, spider monkeys, iguanas, and colorful tropical birds. Costa Rica has one of the highest levels of biodiversity in the world. Lunch. Afternoon free to indulge in your resort’s many activities and amenities. Enjoy dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 • Playa Tambor
Entire day is at leisure. The Nicoya Peninsula is a pristine, secluded gem. It is one of only five Blue Zones in the world where residents have extraordinarily long, healthy lifespans. Lunch. Enjoy romantic strolls on Playa Tambor, a gently sloping beach nearly four miles long. The beach is a nesting site for endangered sea turtles. Stunning sunsets complete your day. Enjoy dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 • Gulf of Nicoya, Tarcoles Cruise
Today, ferry across the Gulf of Nicoya back to the mainland. Playful dolphins frequently swim alongside. In the rare event that the ferry is not operating or unfeasible, Caravan will return by land around the Gulf of Nicoya. Lunch. Next, cruise on the Tarcoles River and float through a mangrove forest. Adjacent to Carara National Park, this area is rich in wildlife. Look for whistling ducks, cormorants, anhingas, snowy egrets, blue heron, northern jacanas, and the amazing nests of the Montezuma oropendola. Watch for black turtles, water walking lizards, and giant crocodiles. Return to San José. Farewell dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 • San José
Your tour ends this morning at your hotel in San José. Breakfast is included only after 6:30 a.m. Caravan includes departure transfers on the day the tour ends from your hotel to the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San José, Costa Rica, arriving at 5:00 a.m, 7:00 a.m, 9:00 a.m., and 11:30 a.m. If you wish to go at a different time or extend your stay in Costa Rica, you will need to transfer on your own at your own expense. Thanks for vacationing with Caravan. ¡Muchas Gracias!
Meals: Breakfast
Arthur Frommer’s Budget Travel
See what Arthur Frommer says about us in his syndicated Budget Travel column.
February 2013
“If you need a guided tour to Costa Rica, you can’t do better than with Caravan Tours.”
September 2007
“On my Sunday radio program, I’ve several times mentioned the attractive price of $995 per person plus airfare for a 10-day, fully-escorted trip to Costa Rica offered throughout the year by the distinguished Chicago tour operator called Caravan Tours. The price includes all accommodations, all meals, and all motorcoach sightseeing and transportation…highly affordable vacations. ” ‘The Travel Show with Arthur Frommer’
January 2006
“I am still impressed that the large Caravan Tours has scheduled almost-daily departures from January through March of its escorted tour of the beaches, volcanoes and rain forests of Costa Rica. It’s a sign of how firmly tourism has taken hold of that Central American republic, and a tribute to the appeal of unsullied nature, which Costa Rica represents. However, it’s also because of the brilliant, affordable pricing of this tour by Caravan.”
December 2005
“The distinguished 53-year-old Caravan Tours has scheduled virtually daily departures there throughout January, February and March for its escorted 10-day tour.
“And what a tour it is: Usually, travelers have to choose from among Costa Rica’s beaches, volcanoes and rain forests. This tour goes to all those places and includes every major sight, as well as three meals a day on all but two days, and excellent hotels and lodges. The cost is a remarkable $995 per person for everything other than airfare to the capital city of San Jose.
“Caravan’s long record in its tour programs … inspires confidence about this strong effort to establish a presence in Costa Rica.”
Arthur Frommer’s Budget Travel
See what Arthur Frommer says about us in his syndicated Budget Travel column.
February 2013
“If you need a guided tour to Costa Rica, you can’t do better than with Caravan Tours.”
September 2007
“On my Sunday radio program, I’ve several times mentioned the attractive price of $995 per person plus airfare for a 10-day, fully-escorted trip to Costa Rica offered throughout the year by the distinguished Chicago tour operator called Caravan Tours. The price includes all accommodations, all meals, and all motorcoach sightseeing and transportation…highly affordable vacations. ” ‘The Travel Show with Arthur Frommer’
January 2006
“I am still impressed that the large Caravan Tours has scheduled almost-daily departures from January through March of its escorted tour of the beaches, volcanoes and rain forests of Costa Rica. It’s a sign of how firmly tourism has taken hold of that Central American republic, and a tribute to the appeal of unsullied nature, which Costa Rica represents. However, it’s also because of the brilliant, affordable pricing of this tour by Caravan.”
December 2005
“The distinguished 53-year-old Caravan Tours has scheduled virtually daily departures there throughout January, February and March for its escorted 10-day tour.
“And what a tour it is: Usually, travelers have to choose from among Costa Rica’s beaches, volcanoes and rain forests. This tour goes to all those places and includes every major sight, as well as three meals a day on all but two days, and excellent hotels and lodges. The cost is a remarkable $995 per person for everything other than airfare to the capital city of San Jose.
“Caravan’s long record in its tour programs … inspires confidence about this strong effort to establish a presence in Costa Rica.”
2024 Hotels
2024 Hotels
Accommodations in the hotels and lodges are rooms with two beds and private bath or shower. A limited number of single rooms are available. Triple rooms are usually two beds.
Days 1, 2 • San José
Barcelo San José
The Barcelo San Jose Hotel is located 1 mile from downtown San José, amidst beautifully landscaped gardens in a quiet residential area. This five star hotel features two indoor restaurants, two bars, a casino, a large swimming pool and pool bar and restaurant, spa with Jacuzzi, steam bath, sauna, tennis and squash courts, massage therapists, hairdresser, and gift shops. Your hotel is fully air-conditioned. Free internet access.
Day 3 • Fortuna
Magic Mountain
Magic Mountain Hotel and Spa is located on the northern end of Fortuna. All rooms have either a balcony or a terrace with a view of Arenal Volcano. Magic Mountain has a restaurant, sports bar, swimming pool with pool bar and two jacuzzis. The deluxe spa specializes in a variety of treatments including volcanic mud wraps, massages, facials, pedicures and manicures. Free internet access.
Days 4, 5, 6 • Nicoya Peninsula
Barcelo Tambor Beach Resort
The Barcelo Beach Resort is located on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast in the secluded Nicoya Peninsula. It is situated alongside picturesque Playa Tambor, a gently sloping beach nearly four miles long overlooking breathtaking Ballena (Whale) Bay. The beach is perfect for leisurely, romantic strolls. The resort grounds are set amidst lush tropical gardens with a variety of walking paths. Iguanas freely wander the grounds and troops of spider and howler monkeys swing from the trees. Here, at Barcelo Tambor, you’ll sleep to the magical sounds of the jungle. A golf course is adjacent to the property. On-site amenities at the resort include outdoor pools, tennis courts, beach volleyball, mini golf, and a fitness center. A full-service deluxe spa and hair salon are available for a fee. The fully equipped guest rooms are air conditioned and all feature either a terrace or a balcony. Free WiFi.
Day 7 • San José
Quality Hotel Real San Jose
The Quality Hotel Real San Jose is conveniently located in the entertainment center of the Santa Ana District in San Jose and just a few steps away from a variety of restaurants, bars and shopping centers. Valle del Sol Golf Course, one of the finest golf courses in Costa Rica, is only three minutes away. A well-equipped exercise room will inspire your workout, offering a view of the swimming pool and garden. All guest rooms have been thoughtfully decorated and feature a variety of amenities, including free high-streaming-speed Internet.
2025 Hotels
2025 Hotels
Accommodations in the hotels and lodges are rooms with two beds and private bath or shower. A limited number of single rooms are available. Triple rooms are usually two beds.
Days 1, 2 • San José
Barcelo San José
The Barcelo San Jose Hotel is located 1 mile from downtown San José, amidst beautifully landscaped gardens in a quiet residential area. This five star hotel features two indoor restaurants, two bars, a casino, a large swimming pool and pool bar and restaurant, spa with Jacuzzi, steam bath, sauna, tennis and squash courts, massage therapists, hairdresser, and gift shops. Your hotel is fully air-conditioned. Free internet access.
Day 3 • Fortuna
Magic Mountain
Magic Mountain Hotel and Spa is located on the northern end of Fortuna. All rooms have either a balcony or a terrace with a view of Arenal Volcano. Magic Mountain has a restaurant, sports bar, swimming pool with pool bar and two jacuzzis. The deluxe spa specializes in a variety of treatments including volcanic mud wraps, massages, facials, pedicures and manicures. Free internet access.
Days 4, 5, 6 • Nicoya Peninsula
Barcelo Tambor Beach Resort
The Barcelo Beach Resort is located on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast in the secluded Nicoya Peninsula. It is situated alongside picturesque Playa Tambor, a gently sloping beach nearly four miles long overlooking breathtaking Ballena (Whale) Bay. The beach is perfect for leisurely, romantic strolls. The resort grounds are set amidst lush tropical gardens with a variety of walking paths. Iguanas freely wander the grounds and troops of spider and howler monkeys swing from the trees. Here, at Barcelo Tambor, you’ll sleep to the magical sounds of the jungle. A golf course is adjacent to the property. On-site amenities at the resort include outdoor pools, tennis courts, beach volleyball, mini golf, and a fitness center. A full-service deluxe spa and hair salon are available for a fee. The fully equipped guest rooms are air conditioned and all feature either a terrace or a balcony. Free WiFi.
Day 7 • San José
Quality Hotel Real San Jose
The Quality Hotel Real San Jose is conveniently located in the entertainment center of the Santa Ana District in San Jose and just a few steps away from a variety of restaurants, bars and shopping centers. Valle del Sol Golf Course, one of the finest golf courses in Costa Rica, is only three minutes away. A well-equipped exercise room will inspire your workout, offering a view of the swimming pool and garden. All guest rooms have been thoughtfully decorated and feature a variety of amenities, including free high-streaming-speed Internet.
Airport Transfers
Airport Transfers
arrival Transfers
Transfer on your own from the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) to your hotel, the Barcelo San Jose (Residencial, Diagonal 23A, Robledal La Uruca) in San Jose. Once you have exited customs and collected your baggage at the airport, proceed to the official taxi service known as “Taxis Unidos Aeropuerto,” The taxi kiosk is located on your left at the exit door of the airport. Here you can request your taxi. The driving time from the airport to the hotel is approximately 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost will range from $30-$40 US Dollars plus tip. Payment can be made by US Dollars, Costa Rica Colones or via credit card. Currency exchange and ATMs are available in the airport. When you arrive at your hotel, please identify yourself as a Caravan tour member to the front desk personnel.
departure Transfers
This tour includes departure transfers from your hotel in San José to the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San José, Costa Rica on the day the tour ends, scheduled to arrive at the airport at 5:00 a.m, 7:00 a.m, 9:00 a.m., and 11:30 a.m. These transfers are only available on the day the tour ends. If you wish to extend your stay in Costa Rica, you will need to transfer on your own, at your own expense. Please ask the hotel bellman to arrange a taxi. Expect to pay $25.00 U.S. Dollars per taxi, plus tip. The driving time from the hotel to the airport is approximately 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
Airfare is not included or sold by Caravan.
Airport Transfers
Airport Transfers
arrival Transfers
Transfer on your own from the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) to your hotel, the Barcelo San Jose (Residencial, Diagonal 23A, Robledal La Uruca) in San Jose. Once you have exited customs and collected your baggage at the airport, proceed to the official taxi service known as “Taxis Unidos Aeropuerto,” The taxi kiosk is located on your left at the exit door of the airport. Here you can request your taxi. The driving time from the airport to the hotel is approximately 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost will range from $30-$40 US Dollars plus tip. Payment can be made by US Dollars, Costa Rica Colones or via credit card. Currency exchange and ATMs are available in the airport. When you arrive at your hotel, please identify yourself as a Caravan tour member to the front desk personnel.
departure Transfers
This tour includes departure transfers from your hotel in San José to the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San José, Costa Rica on the day the tour ends, scheduled to arrive at the airport at 5:00 a.m, 7:00 a.m, 9:00 a.m., and 11:30 a.m. These transfers are only available on the day the tour ends. If you wish to extend your stay in Costa Rica, you will need to transfer on your own, at your own expense. Please ask the hotel bellman to arrange a taxi. Expect to pay $25.00 U.S. Dollars per taxi, plus tip. The driving time from the hotel to the airport is approximately 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
Airfare is not included or sold by Caravan.
Passports & Visas
Passports & Visas
To enter Costa Rica, you will need a U.S. passport valid for 6 additional months after the date of your arrival into Costa Rica. A 3 month tourist visa is automatically issued to U.S. citizens after clearing Costa Rica customs. Non U.S. citizens, please check passport and visa requirements. Note: It is recommended that children under 18 years old traveling internationally without both parents or legal guardians, carry a notarized letter of authorization signed by the missing parent(s) or guardian(s). A notarized birth certificate showing only one parent, a parent’s death certificate, or a court order of child custody may also be permissible. Failure to have proper documentation could result in denial of boarding by the airline, due to international child protection laws. See Travel Tips for more details.
Passports & Visas
Passports & Visas
To enter Costa Rica, you will need a U.S. passport valid for 6 additional months after the date of your arrival into Costa Rica. A 3 month tourist visa is automatically issued to U.S. citizens after clearing Costa Rica customs. Non U.S. citizens, please check passport and visa requirements. Note: It is recommended that children under 18 years old traveling internationally without both parents or legal guardians, carry a notarized letter of authorization signed by the missing parent(s) or guardian(s). A notarized birth certificate showing only one parent, a parent’s death certificate, or a court order of child custody may also be permissible. Failure to have proper documentation could result in denial of boarding by the airline, due to international child protection laws. See Travel Tips for more details.
Weather & Clothing
Weather & Clothing
Temperature °F (high/low) Rainfall (inches)
| San José | Nicoya Peninsula | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp | Rain | Temp | Rain | |
| Jan | 78/64 | 1.1 | 92/79 | 0.1 |
| Feb | 79/64 | 0.8 | 93/80 | 0.1 |
| Mar | 80/64 | 0.7 | 94/80 | 0.1 |
| Apr | 81/65 | 1.9 | 93/80 | 0.9 |
| May | 79/65 | 4.8 | 90/79 | 4.1 |
| Jun | 78/64 | 5.6 | 89/79 | 4.8 |
| Jul | 78/65 | 4.7 | 90/79 | 3.4 |
| Aug | 78/64 | 5.2 | 90/78 | 4.6 |
| Sep | 77/63 | 6.2 | 89/77 | 6.8 |
| Oct | 77/63 | 6.5 | 88/77 | 6.6 |
| Nov | 77/64 | 4.4 | 89/78 | 2.9 |
| Dec | 77/64 | 2.2 | 90/79 | 0.7 |
Temperature °F (high/low) Rainfall (inches)
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San José | ||||||||||||
| temp | 78/64 | 79/64 | 80/64 | 81/65 | 79/65 | 78/64 | 78/65 | 78/64 | 77/63 | 77/63 | 77/64 | 77/64 |
| rainfall | 1.1 | 0.8 | 0.7 | 1.9 | 4.8 | 5.6 | 4.7 | 5.2 | 6.2 | 6.5 | 4.4 | 2.2 |
| Nicoya Peninsula | ||||||||||||
| temp | 92/79 | 93/80 | 94/80 | 93/80 | 90/79 | 89/79 | 90/79 | 90/78 | 89/77 | 88/77 | 89/78 | 90/79 |
| rainfall | 0.1 | 0.1 | 0.1 | 0.9 | 4.1 | 4.8 | 3.4 | 4.6 | 6.8 | 6.6 | 2.9 | 0.7 |
Clothing Tips
This is a casual tour. Casual wear is suggested for sightseeing and daytime travelling. Dress code for evenings is casual. Suit jackets for men and dresses for women are never required on Caravan's Costa Rica tour. It is recommended to wear drip-dry clothing in the rainforest. Shirts with long sleeves and long pants are recommended for rain forest and cloud forest hikes. See Travel Tips for more details.
This is a casual tour. Casual wear is suggested for sightseeing and daytime travelling. Dress code for evenings is casual. Suit jackets for men and dresses for women are never required on Caravan's Costa Rica tour. It is recommended to wear drip-dry clothing in the rainforest. Shirts with long sleeves and long pants are recommended for rain forest and cloud forest hikes. See Travel Tips for more details.
Travel Tips & FAQs
Travel Tips & FAQs
These are only the first 25 Travel Tips. Read all 78 Travel Tips Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica. English is taught as a second language in Costa Rican schools. Your Caravan Tour Director, local guides and most hotel receptionists are bi-lingual, speaking both English and Spanish. Costa Rica observes Central Standard Time all year round. Because Costa Rica does not observe Daylight Savings Time, in the winter it shares the same time as cities in the Central Time Zone such as Chicago, Houston and Winnipeg. In the summer, Costa Rica time is one hour earlier than Central Time Zone areas which observe Daylight Savings Time. After exiting your plane, you will first arrive at the immigration desk, and present your passport and a Costa Rica immigration form. (This form is provided to you by your airplane. On the form, you will write your name, passport number, nationality, occupation, and the motive for your visit - tourism or business.) After you are approved in the immigration computer, you take the escalator or elevator downstairs to the baggage claim area. When you arrive at the baggage claim area, you will find free luggage carts and clean restrooms. You can pick up a free map here at the Tourist Information booth. If an airport porter assists you with your suitcases, please tip the airport porter $2 per person or more in the United States, and $1 per person or more in Costa Rica, depending on the amount of your luggage. Airfare is not included or sold by Caravan Tours. Reserve your flight to San Jose, Costa Rica (airport code SJO), and not San Jose, California (airport code SJC). Try to schedule flights with as few connections as possible. If you have connecting flights, please allow enough time between flights so you can comfortably reach your connecting gates. After you pick up your suitcase at baggage claim, you must stop at the customs table and put your suitcase on a conveyor belt through the scanning machine. This takes about ten seconds. Then the customs agent will signal you to exit the customs area. When returning to the U.S., U.S. customs allows each person an exemption of customs taxes on up to $800.00 U.S. worth of Costa Rican goods that are in your possession and personally accompany you. Items to be sent later are not included in your $800 duty-free exemption. If two family members are traveling together, they may combine their customs exemption. For instance, a married couple will have a total $1,600.00 customs exemption. A flat duty rate of 3% is applied to the first $1,000 of goods per person beyond the $800 per person exemption. The duty-free exemption applies ONLY IF you have not used any exemption allowance whatsoever in the past 30 days. For instance, if you have made another international trip within the past 30 days, and used even a small exemption of $10, you would not get the $800 exemption. For this reason, sometimes it is best not to use the exemption if (1) the value of your goods is very low, and (2) you are planning to use the exemption on another trip within 30 days. Duty on items you mail home to yourself is waived if the value is $200 or less. There is no customs duties charge for your personal items in Costa Rica. You can drive with your normal driver's license in Costa Rica for 3 months after your entry into Costa Rica. There is no such thing as an international driver's license, although there is an international driving permit which you can buy for $10 at an American Automobile Association office. These permits are valid for one year after date of issue, and are valid only when accompanied by a valid driver's license. It is not necessary to buy an international driving permit for a visit of under 3 months to Costa Rica. You can charter a deep sea fishing boat while you are staying on the Pacific Ocean. Quepos, has world class deep sea fishing. Chartered deep sea fishing boats are available for prices from $500 to $1,000 or more a day. If you decide to go fishing, please wear your life jackets at all times. Some clients participate in rafting tours or zip-line canopy tours. Caravan feels that these activities sometimes can be risky and dangerous. Others sign up for tours of Lankaster Gardens to see flowers, or horseback riding trips. There are travel desks at the hotels and numerous travel agents in San Jose, Fortuna who can arrange activities for you if you wish. Virtually everything! Hotels, most meals, all of the activities described in the itinerary, airport departure transfers, gratuities to hotel porters and restaurant staff. Caravan’s professional Tour Directors and local guides will be with you every step of the way, ensuring a worry free vacation. They are fluent in English, experienced and fun, ensuring a worry-free vacation. It is recommended to bring at least one pair of quick-dry pants and one quick-dry shirt. The quick-dry pants that zip at the knee to convert into shorts are particularly popular. Be sure to also bring a sweater or jacket for the cooler night temperatures. Caravan does not make product endorsements, but many feel that Avon Skin So Soft oil (not cream), or Avon's Expedition anti-mosquito spray is effective protection against mosquito bites in the jungle. Caravan does not endorse any vitamin, but please note that Central American pharmacies sell 500 milligram Vitamin B-1 tablets, a non-prescription vitamin, as "anti-mosquito" pills. Many people take Vitamin B-1 pills and eat garlic for about two weeks prior to and during their visits to the jungle because they believe that the smell of Vitamin B-1 and garlic repels mosquitoes. If you believe this may be of value, consult your doctor for further information on Vitamin B-1 and garlic. Many also avoid eating bananas in the rainforest, as it is believed that this smell attracts mosquitoes. Also, it is wise to wear light-weight quick-dry long-sleeved pants and shirts in these tropical areas. Included meals for each tour are listed at the end of each day. Meals are shown by B (breakfast), L (lunch) and D (dinner). Full, buffet, or deluxe continental breakfasts are included everywhere. Free bottled water is provided on the motorcoach. Alcoholic beverages are not included unless specified. Children age five (5) and older are welcome on tour when accompanied by an adult. Usually, children travel during the school vacation months of June, July and August, and also during spring and winter school breaks. Families are always welcome on any of our tours, but we do not have any programs specifically for or limited to families. Families can make specific requests for connecting, adjacent, triple or quad rooms, when available. Children must be at least 5 years old. Prices do not include air travel, country entry or departure fees, airport porters, visas, phone calls, valet, laundry, all items of a personal nature, extra food and beverages not on the regular menu, and tips to the Caravan Tour Director, driver, and local guides. Usually, you find a mix of different age adult travelers on a Caravan Tour. Children age five (5) and older are welcome, and children usually join tours offered during Christmas holidays, summer vacation and spring break vacation. Caravan accepts payment (in U.S. funds only) via MasterCard, Visa, or Discover. The farther in advance that you book, the more likely it is that your preferred tour will be open. Late bookings are welcome if the space is still available. Caravan has been offering fully guided tours worldwide under the same family ownership and management since 1952. Caravan understands and truly cares about your great expectations. Group sizes will vary depending on the reserved rooms at the hotels and the capacity of the boats and motorcoaches used. Usually, group sizes range from 30 to 44 passengers. A well-paced and unhurried itinerary is our goal, after all, you are on vacation! Touring days begin and end at reasonable hours and include frequent stops. While the occasional early morning departure is necessary, we do our best to ensure a leisurely vacation. Caravan Travel Protection offers peace of mind if you cancel for any reason whatsoever prior to the departure of the tour. The travel protection plan also includes air, baggage, evacuation, medical, and quarantine coverage. The cost is $129.Language Spoken in Costa Rica
Time Zone
Costa Rica Immigration
San Jose, Costa Rica Baggage Claim
Airport Porter Tips
Caravan Does Not Arrange Airline Transportation
Costa Rica Customs
Customs Duties for Items Purchased in Costa Rica
Customs Duties for Personal Items in Costa Rica
Drivers License
Fishing in Costa Rica
Activities in Costa Rica if Arriving a Day Early or Staying a Day Longer
My Tour Price Includes
Preparing for the Tropics
Are meals included?
Children on Tour
Family Trips
My Tour Price Does Not Include
Age of Travelers on a Caravan Tour
Forms of Payment
Many Tours Sell Out Each Year
Fully Guided Tours Since 1952
Size of Tour Group
A Well-Paced Itinerary
Caravan’s $129 Travel Protection
Customer Reviews
Customer Reviews
These are only the first 7 Customer Reviews. Read all 280 Customer Reviews "In all my travels I have never been blessed with such a professional, knowledgeable, kind and generous tour director. Jose went so far beyond all our expectations to make this tour such a pleasure and wonderful memory." "I took the tour to see the nature and beauty of Costa Rica. It was beyond my expectations. Several friends had recommended this Caravan tour to me and now I am ready to recommend your company to others." "This was the best vacation I've had. It is the only way to see Costa Rica." "The sights were absolutely fabulous! We visited all the places we were interested in seeing. This was an exceptional tour at an exceptional price. The guides were very eco-minded. We received a good education from them and their passion for preserving their environment was contagious. We totally get it. Your Costa Rican tour was awesome." "The superior lodging and food made our concerns seem silly. We found all the hotels clean and modern. We always try to support local artists when we travel, so we were delighted to visit Sarchi with its oxcart factory and its shop with an extensive selection of goods made in Costa Rica. We enjoyed the spectacular and clean pools at Baldi Hot Springs, cruising the Rio Frio; the focus on flora and fauna attracted us to this trip in the first place." "I was in awe. I was in Costa Rica on vacation. Couldn’t have asked for a better ride from our driver. A first class guy. My first Caravan trip and I would recommend you guys to anyone." "It is almost impossible to visit a country in one week, but Caravan is doing a wonderful job in Costa Rica. Food was incredible, very fresh, great variety and plentiful. Love all activities. Got to see all birds and animals including the elusive sloth. We had a smooth ride, everything was just wonderful."
Read All 280 ReviewsClick Here to Read All 280 Customer Reviews
Why Travel with Caravan?
Why Travel with Caravan?
Excellence Since 1952
You can trust our years of experience with tours of superb quality and excellent value. Caravan has enjoyed the same family management and ownership since 1952.
Caravan Care
For your safety, Caravan cancelled most 2020 and all 2021 tour departures and refunded 100% of all payments received. See Caravan’s Covid-19 Terms of Travel.
Caravan's Proud History
In 1965, Roger Mudd hosted a two-hour CBS TV special on Caravan Tours. This TV production took about one month to make and was so successful it inspired the 1968 romantic comedy movie “If it’s Tuesday this must be Belgium.” In the early 50’s the Mayor of Dublin presented Caravan with the Key to Dublin for bringing the first American tour to the city after WWII. Since then, Caravan has been recognized as a pioneer in travel. You can trust in our stability, experience and dedication to quality.
Great Hotels
Stay at park lodges, scenic resorts, and excellent hotels in great locations. See hotel descriptions on each tour page.
Meals
Most meals included within Latin America. For USA and Canada tours, included meals are listed on each itinerary page. Bottled water is provided on motorcoaches in Latin America.
Complete Sightseeing
Enjoy complete sightseeing with more visits, extra features, and local guides.
Fully Guided by Tour Directors
All tours conducted from start to finish by professional tour directors, who are fluent in English, experienced, and fun.
All-inclusive
Caravan includes all activities listed in the tour itinerary page. Caravan does not sell any optional activities which can add hundreds of dollars to your tour price. Your free time is scheduled in great settings where there is no need to buy additional expensive activities.
Shopping Freedom
Caravan will not bring you to overpriced shops in exchange for payments. Caravan gives you ample opportunity and time for great shopping, and the freedom to choose where and when to shop.
Great Value, Book Early
Caravan’s strong buying power gives you great vacations at prices much lower than you can find anywhere. In a typical year, most of our tours sell out quickly. Book early for the date you prefer and the best air fare.
How does Caravan Tours sell these tours for such a low cost?
Caravan delivers volume to our suppliers, who in turn reward us with their very best prices. We in turn pass these savings on to you, and you reward us by buying our tours. As volume continues to rise, we then receive even better prices from our suppliers, and we pass even greater savings on to you. This year our tours are better than ever.
Trade Association Memberships
Caravan is a member of NTA (National Tour Association), ABA (American Bus Association), CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), and ACMA (American Commerce Marketing Association).
